The Texans say defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is in stable condition after undergoing surgery Thursday on his kidney and gall bladder in Houston.
The team announced Wednesday that Phillips would take a medical leave to have a surgical procedure. The 64-year-old Phillips said after Wednesday's practice that he expected to miss a week to 10 days to recover. He said his condition was not life-threatening and non-cancerous.
"We're happy to hear that he's doing well," Texans cornerback Jason Allen told the team's website. "We're going to keep him in our prayers and wish him a speedy recovery. We definitely want to play well for him in his absence."
Linebackers coach Reggie Herring will run the defense for Houston (10-3) in Sunday's game against Carolina (4-9).
"I'm watching guys pick it up a notch," Coach Gary Kubiak said to the website. "They want to help Reggie, help any way they can, and they understand the situation and also want Wade to be sitting there watching them play Sunday and make him proud. So, if anything, I just watch guys continue to find a little bit more in themselves week in and week out, and that's what our team's been all about."
The Texans lead the league in total defense (275 yards per game) under the guidance of Phillips, hired in January. The team said in a statement that "in order to respect his privacy, the family has requested there be no further information given at this time."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
